Free Admission Thursday from 10am to 2pm at Texas Southern University Art Gallery - see INFO below. A History of Excellence in Art Dr. John Biggers, world-renowned artist, established the Art Department at Texas Southern University in 1949 along with Carroll Harris Simms and other key supporters. One of his goals for the University was to develop a collection of traditional African African American Art. Such collections enable students to develop a "perceptional growth" and cultural sensitivity. Through Dr. Biggers's initiative, the University has developed several collections with over 4,000 works that spark educational curiosity and artistic inspiration. More Info below.